KOCHVILLE TOWNSHIP, MI — Saginaw Valley State University has updated its Code of Student Conduct with a new definition of sexual harassment and a change in the way such cases are handled.

The changes are mandated to meet Title IX compliance requirements. The Education Amendments of 1972 protect people from discrimination based on sex in education programs and activities that receive federal financial assistance.

Merry Jo Brandimore, dean of students and Student Affairs vice president,said the Office of Civil Rights required universities to include a specific definition of sexual harrassment in their student codes of conduct.

1. Submission to or rejection of such advances, requests or conduct is made either explicitly or implicitly a term or condition of employment, education, housing or participation in any university activity, OR

2. Such advances, requests or conduct have the purpose or effect of unreasonably interfering with an individual's employment, education, housing or participating in any university activity by creating an intimidating, hostile, humiliating or sexually offensive environment.

Alleged victims of sexual harassment and assault now can appeal the rulingof a university hearing, whereas before only the student charged with violating the code of conduct could do so, she said.

SVSU had four reports of sexual harassment

in the 2012-13 school year, she said.

"We investigate every allegation that is made," Brandimore said.

The SVSU Board of Control approved the code of conduct changes at its Monday, Aug. 19 meeting.

SVSU President Eric Gilbertson said there is heightened sensitivity on college campuses regarding sexual harassment and assault.

Along with the student code of conduct changes, Brandimore said the university aims to increase education about sexual harassment and assault among students and staff.

"We want students to understand how to be a member of a community and if they observe things that aren't right, letting counseling staff, SVSU police, Residence Life or a faculty member know," she said.

The institution won't tolerate sexual harassment and assault, Brandimore said. SVSU staff members in the Office of Student Life will help students understand what violations are and help victims through the healing process.

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